Graduates must reserve academic dress in advance of their ceremony. The reservation portal is available between March 1 to April 27. We have worked with the vendor to negotiate a fair and economical price for the rental of academic dress. The graduate must pay directly to the rental company during the reservation process.

Graduates who are able to demonstrate the need for financial assistance with their academic dress rental, are encouraged to contact convocation@dal.ca.

Academic dress — also known as academic costume or regalia — are the distinctive gowns and hoods worn by all participants (including faculty members and university officials who sit onstage) during a Convocation ceremony.

The tradition of graduates wearing gowns and hoods dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries. This tradition continues today at Dalhousie University to signify a graduate’s academic accomplishment.

Indigenous students are welcome to wear traditional dress in a manner that celebrates their heritage with or instead of the gown. In those instances, graduands must still wear their ceremonial hood.

Graduate Recognition by Elders

The Elders in Residence will be present on stage during Convocation to show their support and pride in the accomplishment of Indigenous graduates. The Elders will gift each Indigenous graduate with a traditional medicine pouch hand made by the Elders themselves. If you would like to be recognized by the Elders, please identify yourself so we may celebrate your accomplishment by contacting Christina.coakley@dal.ca

Graduate Recognition by Black Student Advising Centre

The Black Student Advising Centre celebrates the achievements of all graduating black students of African descent and is pleased to announce that Kente sashes will be available at the Centre for graduates to borrow and wear during their ceremonies. Contact the Black Student Advising Centre at bsac2@dal.ca or 494-6648 to borrow a sash.